Preparing to Celebrate a Catholic Funeral
A Guide for Families in the Diocese of Mackenzie-Fort Smith
We offer this guide to help families understand what to expect when planning a Catholic funeral. Funerals in the Church are acts of faith, prayer, and hope, honoring the deceased while supporting the bereaved. In northern and remote communities, early planning and communication are especially important.
Contact the Church Early
- Notify your parish, mission, or diocesan office as soon as a death occurs. Its is best not to assume that the pastoral leader has been notified by Facebook or word of mouth.
- Priests often serve multiple communities, and travel may be delayed by weather or distance.
- Early contact ensures the funeral can take place without unnecessary stress or delay.
The Meaning of a Catholic Funeral
- Funerals commend the deceased to God’s mercy and celebrate the hope of the Resurrection.
- They are not just a family gathering; they are a prayerful celebration shared with the Church community.
Types of Catholic Funeral Services
- Vigil or prayer service – often held the evening before the funeral (can include Mass if there is a priest)
- Funeral Mass – the central celebration when a priest is available
- Funeral liturgy outside of Mass – if a priest cannot immediately be present
- Committal – graveside or interment prayers
- Memorial Mass or service – If the body or remains are not present
- It is normal for a funeral service to be spread over a couple of days with a Vigil service held in the evening followed by a funeral Mass and Committal the next day
Planning the Funeral Liturgy
- Families help select Scripture readings, prayers, and music.
- Simplicity is encouraged: the focus is on prayer, remembrance, and hope.
- Eulogies or words of remembrance are usually brief and may be shared at the vigil or at the end of the Funeral Mass.
Cultural and Community Traditions
- Indigenous and local customs may be included respectfully.
- Traditions should support the prayerful nature of the funeral.
- Community involvement is central to northern funerals, providing both support and shared prayer.
Practical Northern Considerations
- Weather, road conditions, and limited clergy access can affect timing.
- Flexibility with dates and expectations is often necessary.
- The Church will guide you through alternatives if immediate priest presence is not possible.
Information the Church Will Need
- Full name of the deceased
- Date and place of birth and death
- Baptismal information (if available)
- Family contact person
- Preferred place of burial or interment
Burial, Cremation, and Committal
- The Church allows either burial or cremation.
- The committal service provides a final prayerful farewell.
- Timing may depend on season, ground conditions, and travel logistics.
Support from the Church Community
- Parish members, elders, and neighbors often assist with preparations and presence.
- Accepting help is part of the healing process.
- The Church walks with you in grief and prayer, entrusting your loved one to God’s care.
Final Encouragement
Begin early, stay in communication, and trust the process to ensure a prayerful and meaningful celebration.More to come soon
Catholic funeral rites bring comfort, dignity, and hope.
Mackenzie-Fort Smith 